Tips to Conserve Energy Costs this Summer

Summer is here, and chances are your energy bills are showing it. Luckily, there are lots of little ways that you can conserve energy without giving up comfort.

When we think of conserving, we often thing about feeling deprived, don’t we? But it doesn’t have to be that way! You can change small habits or upgrade appliances for energy savings that add up without feeling like you’re cutting back. I’m a big believer in the power of small changes! Here are some tips on little ways to conserve energy this summer.

Save on Air Conditioning

The biggest culprit by far when it comes to summer energy use is your air conditioner. When outside temperatures are in the high nineties or worse, your A/C works hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. You can make things easier for your air conditioner, though! Check out these 14 Ways to Keep Cook in Your Home Without Air Conditioning.

Turn Out the Lights

One of my favorite things about summer is the long days. Isn’t it nice to leave for work in daylight and come home with plenty of daylight left? I love it so much! You can make that extra light work for you! Instead of using lamps and overhead lights, pull the curtains aside.

To get the benefit of sunlight without heating up your house, stick to windows that get indirect sunlight. There are also shades that you can put on your windows that let in light without letting in heat. These are the ones that I have in my house – they work really well! We started with them just in my office, and they were so great that now we have them on almost all of the windows in the house!

Efficient appliances can help you save energy all year round, and one of the best ways to make sure yours are energy efficient is to look for Energy Star-rated appliances.

Energy Star is an EPA program that’s become an international standard for energy efficiency. The folks at Energy Star shared this helpful infographic on how their certification can help you cut back on your summer energy use. Check it:

What do you do to cut back on your summer energy use? Share your favorite ideas in the comments!